Including Cozumel, Cancún and the Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta & Playa del Carmen
Mexico is a country rich in culture, history, natural beauty, and vibrant cities. Mexico boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches along its Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Relax on the white sands of Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, or Tulum, and enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun.Mexico is geographically and culturally diverse, offering a range of regions that each bring unique characteristics to the country’s landscape.
- Baja California: Located in northwest Mexico, Baja California is known for its stunning coastal scenery, including the rugged landscapes of the Baja California Peninsula and the vibrant city life of Tijuana.
- Northern Mexico: This region includes states such as Chihuahua, Sonora, Nuevo León, and Coahuila. It is characterized by its desert landscapes, vast expanses, and important industrial cities like Monterrey.
- Bajío: The Bajío region, which includes states like Guanajuato, Querétaro, and Aguascalientes, is known for its colonial cities, rich cultural heritage, and significant agricultural production.
- Central Mexico: Encompassing Mexico City and the surrounding states of Mexico State, Hidalgo, and Morelos, Central Mexico is the country’s political and cultural heart. It features historic sites, bustling markets, and a blend of ancient and modern architecture.
- Veracruz: Situated on the Gulf Coast, Veracruz is known for its vibrant Afro-Mexican culture, traditional music and dance (like the famous son jarocho), and beautiful beaches.
- Pacific Coast: This region spans from Sinaloa down to Oaxaca along the Pacific Ocean. It includes popular beach destinations like Mazatlán, Puerto Vallarta, and Acapulco, as well as the rich biodiversity of the Sierra Madre Occidental.
- Oaxaca: Oaxaca is renowned for its indigenous cultures, traditional crafts (such as pottery and textiles), delicious cuisine (including mole), and archaeological sites like Monte Albán.
- Chiapas & Tabasco: Chiapas is known for its lush rainforests, Mayan ruins at Palenque, and indigenous communities, while Tabasco is famous for its cocoa production and connection to the ancient Olmec culture.
- Yucatan Peninsula: This region includes the states of Yucatán, Quintana Roo, and Campeche. It is known for its stunning Caribbean beaches, ancient Mayan cities (such as Chichén Itzá and Tulum), cenotes (natural sinkholes), and vibrant cities like Mérida and Cancún.
The Same
During their time in Mexico, both The Dinks and The Family shared the delightful experience of indulging in authentic Mexican cuisine. From savoring traditional tacos and enchiladas to enjoying refreshing margaritas and fresh seafood, they embraced the vibrant culinary scene of Mexico and created lasting memories through their shared gastronomic adventures.
Local Cuisine
- Classic Mexican Dishes: Tacos come in endless varieties, with fillings like al pastor (marinated pork), carnitas (braised pork), barbacoa (slow-cooked beef), carne asada (grilled steak), cochinita pibil (achiote-marinated pork) from the Yucatan, and countless vegetarian options. The Dinks favorites are beef tongue or tripe tacos. Another must try dish is Ceviche: Fresh seafood marinated in citrus juices and spices. Popular along the coasts of Mexico. Tamales and Pozole are two other favorites. Pozole is hearty soup made with hominy (dried corn kernels), meat (often pork), and vegetables. And you must end at least one meal with Churros.
- Tequila: Tequilla comes in a variety of types each which pairs well with different dishes. Blanco or Joven Tequila are ideal for lighter dishes like ceviche, fish tacos, and fresh salsas. Reposado Tequila is aged for a smoother flavor, pairs well with richer dishes like mole, enchiladas, and grilled meats. Añejo Tequila which is also aged for a minimum of one year, offering a complex flavor profile should be enjoy it neat or on the rocks to appreciate its subtleties.
- Street Food: Don’t be afraid to try street food vendors! They often serve some of the most authentic and delicious food in Mexico. Just be sure to choose vendors with good hygiene practices.
Yucatan Peninsula
Cozumel
This beautiful island off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula is a popular destination for diving and snorkeling, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. Visitors can also explore Mayan ruins, relax on sandy beaches, and enjoy water sports and eco-adventures. While the Dinks have been to several vacation areas in Mexico, this was the one place that the Family has visited.
Cozumel is a popular stop for Caribbean cruises and that is how we both found ourselves visiting. Here are some things you can do when your cruise ship docks in Cozumel:
Explore the underwater world: Cozumel is world-renowned for its stunning coral reefs and crystal-clear water, making it a snorkeler’s and scuba diver’s paradise. You’ll find a variety of coral formations, tropical fish, and other marine life. Many cruise lines offer snorkeling and diving excursions as part of their shore trip packages. We purchased our snorkel excursion from a different vendor to save money. The guide feeds the fish so that you are constantly surrounded by beautiful fish.
Relax on the beach: Cozumel boasts beautiful beaches with soft white sand and plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation. Many beaches have beach chairs and umbrellas available for rent, and some even have bars and restaurants. Popular beaches in Cozumel include Paradise Beach, Playa Mia, and Mr. Sancho’s Beach Club. After our snorkel excursion we took a cab to a near by beach and relaxed for a few hours before it was time to head back.
The DINKs
Mexico is a country rich in culture, history, natural beauty, and vibrant cities. We have visited several times because they have some of the prettiest beaches in the Caribbean.
Yucatan Peninsula
Cancún
Cancún, renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife, offers a dynamic blend of relaxation and excitement. Visitors flock to this Mexican paradise not only for its crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches but also for its lively party scene.
We stop by Cancun while on a Caribbean Cruise. We were young and the party scene is what drew us. Among the popular spots is Senor Frogs, a lively venue known for its energetic atmosphere, colorful cocktails, and upbeat music. Nearby, Coco Bongo dazzles visitors with its extravagant shows featuring acrobatics, live music, and impersonations of famous artists, creating an immersive party experience unlike any other.Whether indulging in daytime beach activities or embracing the pulsating nightlife, Cancún promises an unforgettable experience where relaxation and revelry merge seamlessly against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea.
the Riviera Maya
Known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant nightlife, Cancún is a popular destination for sun-seekers and party-goers. Nearby, the Riviera Maya offers opportunities for eco-adventures, exploring ancient Mayan ruins (like Tulum and Chichen Itza), and snorkeling in the Great Mayan Reef. The Riviera Maya in Mexico is a breathtaking stretch of coastline along the eastern Yucatan Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage.
Playa del Carmen
Situated along the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen is a trendy beach destination known for its lively atmosphere, boutique shops, and trendy beach clubs. Visitors can also explore nearby natural attractions like cenotes (underground rivers) and eco-parks.
We stayed at Hotel Xcaret Mexico. This resort offers an all-inclusive experience that includes access to all of the Xcaret parks, as well as transportation, food, and drinks. Our stay at a resort in Mexico was truly unforgettable as we found ourselves surrounded by a variety of fascinating animals.
Beach: The beaches of the Riviera Maya, particularly around Playa del Carmen, are known for their stunning beauty and inviting atmosphere. One of the highlights is the shallow coves that provide a perfect setting for swimming, making it an ideal spot for families and anyone looking to enjoy the warm Caribbean waters. The soft, powdery white sand stretches along the coastline, creating a picturesque backdrop for sunbathing, beach games, or leisurely strolls. The sand stays cool underfoot, allowing for comfortable days by the sea.
Animals: From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by the sight of colorful tropical birds flitting among the lush greenery of the resort grounds. As we explored the pristine beaches and winding pathways, we encountered playful monkeys swinging from the trees and curious coatis scavenging for food. Each day brought new encounters with Mexico’s diverse wildlife, from graceful deer grazing in the early morning light to majestic iguanas sunning themselves on rocky outcrops. Snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters off the coast, I was delighted to spot schools of vibrant fish darting among coral reefs, while gentle sea turtles glided gracefully beneath me.
- Marine Life: The crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea are home to an abundance of marine life. Snorkeling or diving in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef allows you to see colorful coral, tropical fish, sea turtles, and even rays. Popular spots include Akumal, known for its turtle sightings, and Cozumel, famous for its vibrant underwater ecosystems.
- Birds: The area is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 300 species recorded. You might spot tropical birds such as the toucan, colorful parrots, and various species of hummingbirds. The nearby Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve is an excellent location for birdwatching.
- Land Animals: The jungles surrounding Playa del Carmen are home to fascinating wildlife, including howler monkeys, spider monkeys, and coatis. Other creatures, like iguanas and various species of snakes, can also be found in this lush habitat
Visit Chichen Itza & Swim in Cenotes
We booked a day tour from Viator. The bus picked us up from our hotel and we enjoyed a scenic ride through the Mayan jungle, with our guide sharing interesting facts and history about the region. Our first stop was Chichen Itza where we spent a few hours exploring the ruins. Our guide pointed out the highlights, such as the Temple of Kukulkan (also known as El Castillo), the Temple of the Warriors, the Great Ball Court, and the Caracol observatory and then gave us some free time to explore. After we headed to a cenote. These natural sinkholes are a refreshing way to beat the heat and a unique feature of the Yucatan landscape. It kind of creep me out because it is so dark you can’t see what fish are hitting your feet.
Pacific Coast
Puerto Vallarta
Nestled on the Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is a charming resort town known for its picturesque beaches, cobblestone streets, and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can enjoy water sports, boat tours, and exploring the historic old town.
We visited with a large group for a friends birthday. We rented a few houses that had ocean views and spent most of our days relaxing by the pool.
One thing that everyone really enjoyed was a Taco Tour. Mexico is a taco paradise, and there’s no better way to experience the rich and diverse flavors of the country’s cuisine than on a taco tour. These guided adventures take you to a variety of local taquerias, introducing you to an array of regional specialties and hidden gems you might not find on your own. They even stopped at a place for Churros. (Deep-fried dough pastries, often served with chocolate or caramel dipping sauce.)
The Family
Embarking on a cruise with kids proved to be an exceptional way to travel, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly activities. From the moment we stepped aboard the ship, my children were enthralled by the exciting array of amenities and entertainment options tailored to their interests. The ship’s dedicated kids’ clubs provided endless opportunities for fun and enrichment, with supervised activities ranging from arts and crafts to sports tournaments and themed parties.
Summary
In exploring Mexico, both the Family and the DINKs had distinct experiences. The Family’s visit was a brief yet enjoyable stop in Cozumel during a cruise, where they focused on family-friendly beach activities. The DINKs, however, have ventured more extensively throughout Mexico. They’ve stopped in both Cancun and Cozumel on cruises, but have also stayed multiple times in Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta. Their stays allowed for deeper exploration of Mexico’s beaches, culture, and cuisine, providing a broader perspective on the country’s diverse offerings beyond the quick highlights of a cruise stop.
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